Weight Watchers success stories: Sarah

 It really is possible to lose weight – and keep it off for good!

My husband Mick and I renewed our vows in Las Vegas after 15 happy years together. On the day, I basked in compliments, secretly thrilled that the stunning size 10 beaded, corseted cream dress I was wearing was two sizes smaller than my original wedding dress. It was testament to a healthier lifestyle that was almost as long-lasting as my marriage. It was all down to Weight Watchers, and my decision to lose 3st of accumulated baby weight after my children – Liam, now 14, and Lewis, now 12 – were born.

You need to find the right incentive

I managed it, thanks to sheer determination and a strong desire to escape my frumpy middle-aged wardrobe. I had to retrain myself in the kitchen – planning meals in advance, cooking everything from scratch and choosing healthier lunches, such as a jacket potato over a baguette.

Be proud of your changing body

As a beautician, I always took great care over my hair and make-up but, as the pounds came off, I started to concentrate more on what was below the neck. At Christmas, the parties and meals out became an opportunity to show off, rather than hide, my curves. Getting ready for a night out turned into a ritual I would luxuriate over, ditching the shapeless trousers and tops for gorgeous dresses.

Don’t hide inside – get out and get moving!

When I started Weight Watchers, I took my sons out in their double buggy, burning calories as I power-pushed, determined to shift the sluggish feeling that had dogged me for months. I’d start to run regularly once my stamina increased.

See healthy living as a long-term commitment

For 12 years now, I have stayed around my goal weight, keeping to the plan, attending meetings when I need a boost, and enjoying being able to dress how I want. Once I reached goal – all those years ago– I knew there would be no going back.